Rapid Visual Assessment of Landslips Affecting the Road

Author: Kay Want

When a landslip affects the road, the attending Geotechnical Engineer or Engineering Geologist is expected to make a rapid visual assessment of likely geohazards during and after debris clearance. This enables decisions on the extent of road or lane closure, whether emergency engagement of specialist contractors would be required for immediate removal or stabilisation of residual hazards, and whether consultants should be engaged for further investigations and design of longer-term remedial works. This presentation will provide a brief overview of landslip visual assessments for the non-specialist. It outlines how the geotechnical assessor synthesises four areas of knowledge and field experience. Case studies of recent landslips will be used to illustrate various slip mechanisms and the identification of residual hazards. From observation of the slip mechanism and residual hazards, a site-specific approach can be developed to reduce residual risks to an acceptable level.   

Key dates

  • Save the date

    October 2025

  • Abstract submissions open

    13 October 2025

  • Abstract submissions close

    31 January 2026

  • Author notification

    April 2026

  • Registration open

    May 2026

  • Full program available

    May 2026

  • Conference dates

    18-20 August 2026

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